Behind the Scenes on Invasion: The Normans

Invasion: The Normans, a 2 x 1 hour documentary series, combines stunning location footage, atmospheric drama re-enactments, and vivid modern-day sequences to reveal this fascinating history. Narrated by leading actor Michael McElhatton (Game of Thrones, The Last Duel), the series is filmed in 4K UHD at spectacular locations in Ireland, France and Britain. The drama re-enactments include gritty and realistic battle scenes. They also vividly recreate medieval Ireland and Europe, from the opulent court of Henry II in 1166 to besieged civilians in Dublin in 1171. Expert commentary, archaeology and scientific analysis add context to the compelling historical narrative. Contributors include Colin Veach (Hull University), Robert Bartlett (University of St Andrews), Clare Downham (University of Liverpool), Seán Duffy (Trinity College Dublin), Michael Potterton (Maynooth University), Sparky Booker (Dublin City University), Thomas Roche (Archivesde l’Eure, Normandy) and Charlotte Lapiche (Falaise Castle, Normandy).

The Director of Photography for the series was Ronan Fox. The Sound Recordist was Michael Cassidy, while audio mixing was conducted by Killian Fitzgerald of Avatar Audio Post Production. The series was edited by Lawrence Fee. Post production was provided by Outer Limits with Eugene McCrystal as colorist, Arnaud Rigaud as online editor and Karina Craveiro in charge of VFX. The production designer was Lynne Williams and Catherine Munro was production manager. The drama re-enactments were filmed in Ireland.

Invasion: The Normans is produced by Tile Films Limited with the support of RTÉ Ireland, Tourism Ireland, and Section 481, Ireland’s Film Corporation Tax Credit. International distribution is by Off the Fence. The series is written and directed by David Ryan and produced by award winning filmmaker, Stephen Rooke on behalf of Tile Films.